Sciaenochromis fryeri

Family: Cichlidae

Sciaenochromis fryeri — a Cichlidae from Africa. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; keep at 24–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6.5–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
11.2–16.5 cm
Minimum tank
327 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding
Origin
Africa

Species overview

A Cichlidae species native to Africa: Sciaenochromis fryeri lives middle of the water column over lakes and slow rivers with structure. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Lakes and slow rivers with structure
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand with rock piles
Hardscape
Stones, caves and broken lines of sight
Plants
Hardy species that tolerate digging

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Pairs or singles with defined territory
Diet
Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Often striking; males larger and brighter
Breeding method
Substrate or cave spawner with parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Sciaenochromis fryeri easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding; pairs or singles with defined territory.

What temperature and water chemistry does Sciaenochromis fryeri need?

Set the heater to 24–28 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–8, GH 5–19 dGH suit it.

How big does Sciaenochromis fryeri get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm; it is middle of the water column. Plan for at least 327 litres.

What does Sciaenochromis fryeri eat?

Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Sciaenochromis fryeri live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Sciaenochromis fryeri come from?

Its home waters are Africa — lakes and slow rivers with structure, with still to gentle current.

Does Sciaenochromis fryeri jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Sciaenochromis fryeri breed?

Substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.